KRS 189.582: Railroad Crossing Violations in Kentucky

What Is KRS 189.582?

KRS 189.582 establishes rules for vehicles at railroad crossings in Kentucky. Crossing tracks improperly can result in citations and — when accidents occur — devastating consequences. People in Lexington and Louisville face these violations in cases involving rural and urban rail crossings.

What the Statute Requires

Drivers must stop and not proceed when:

A clearly visible electric signal warns of an approaching train
Crossing gates are lowered
A flagman gives a stop signal
An approaching train is within hazardous distance

Special Vehicle Requirements

Some vehicles must always stop at railroad crossings:

School buses
Vehicles carrying hazardous materials
Commercial buses with passengers

Penalties

Fines
Points on license
Possible license suspension for repeat offenses
Felony charges if death or serious injury results

Defenses Available

Signals weren’t actually working
No train was approaching
Necessity
Officer’s observation was inaccurate

Clark + Harris Defends Traffic Cases

Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

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